Ermelinda is a determined entrepreneur from Nampula who has turned new skills into new business opportunities.
Before joining the Conecta Negócios training on agroprocessing, she earned a living by reselling basic produce such as potatoes. Today, she is transforming locally grown crops into high-quality, value-added products and building a loyal customer base along the way.
Through the programme, Ermelinda completed 10 days of training: five days focused on agroprocessing methods and business management, followed by five days of practical, hands-on work. This combination of theory, practice and innovation gave her the skills and confidence to apply what she had learned directly to her business.
One product in particular caught her attention: peanut butter. Although she had seen it on the market before, she did not know how it was made. The training showed her every step of the process, from preparing raw peanuts to producing the finished jar.
For Ermelinda, the biggest advantage of her product is clear: it is natural and made without chemical additives. This has become both a source of pride and a strong selling point.
“The one I knew before was made with chemicals, but ours has none at all.”
Since completing the training, Ermelinda has launched two new products: natural peanut butter and papaya jam. Both have been well received by customers. More importantly, the training has given her the confidence to think bigger, embrace innovation and plan for further growth.
“My customers have increased, and it is because of the training.”
Ermelinda is now focused on expanding production of both her peanut butter and papaya jam. She has also become an enthusiastic advocate for the programme in her community, encouraging other entrepreneurs to keep going.
“I tell my colleagues never to lose heart. This is real, it truly works.”
Her story shows how practical, targeted skills training can help micro, small and medium-sized enterprises diversify their products, reach new customers, strengthen local value chains and drive innovation in local markets.
The Conecta Negócios training is part of the Economic Links for Diversification Project (EL4D/PLED). We are implementing the component Developing Economic Linkages through Skills, Finance, and Quality Upgrading, with funding from the World Bank, in partnership with the National Institute for Small and Medium Enterprises (IPEME) and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF).
